INZ Updates October 18, 2024

Changes to the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa by INZ

The New Zealand Government is implementing changes to the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV).

Effective from October 31, 2024, applicants will no longer be eligible for a second MEPV. However, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will consider any second MEPV applications submitted by October 30, 2024. Individuals whose first MEPV expires on or before November 30, 2024, can apply for a second MEPV before October 30, if they wish.

Additionally, beginning October 31, the definition of migrant exploitation will be revised to more effectively address harmful and exploitative actions. Employment New Zealand will exclude the following from being classified as migrant exploitation when reviewing reports:

Lawful termination of employment and redundancies
Non-payment of final wages due to company liquidation
Situations lacking a true employment relationship, such as actions not conducted by or on behalf of an employer of the migrant worker

Migrants with legitimate reports of exploitation can still request an MEPV for up to six months, allowing them to exit exploitative circumstances and remain legally in New Zealand while seeking new employment. If they cannot find suitable work, INZ encourages them to use this period to plan their return home.

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Author Details

Vandana Rai

(LIA 201400900)

Director

Vandana is herself a migrant and has a rare set of skill match, which could be considered ideal for a Licensed Immigration Adviser. She was a school counsellor from 1996 to 2006, a role in which she was a natural fit due to her nurturing and caring personality. Her earnest journey as a fully Licensed Immigration Adviser for New Zealand began in 2014, and she considers herself blessed to have the background and the skills that allow her, as an Immigration adviser, to effortlessly visualise herself in her client’s situation, understand their needs and problems, and use her knowledge, experience, and expertise to help find a solution for it.

She is currently on the Board of New Zealand Association of Migration and Investment (NZAMI) and was part of the Immigration Advisers Authority(IAA) referral group for 2016.